Feb 18 • 13:53 UTC 🇱🇻 Latvia LSM

Biathlete Buliņa: Lacked the experience to handle the great stress

Latvian biathlete Sanita Buliņa expressed frustration over her performance at the Olympics in Milan-Cortina, indicating that the stress impacted her ability to compete effectively.

In a candid interview after her race, Latvian biathlete Sanita Buliņa reflected on the intense pressure she faced during the Olympic Games in Milan-Cortina. After starting strong, the Latvian team unfortunately fell from 1st to 16th place, leading to Buliņa's disappointment. She admitted that there was more stress than she expected and mentioned that it might have been better for her to have received the baton at a slightly lower position to manage the situation better. The overwhelming feeling of bitterness left her unsure about what to take away from her Olympic experience.

Buliņa's teammates, Esteres Volfas and Baiba Bendika, initially set a positive tone for the Latvian team by securing strong finishes in the earlier part of the race. Volfas, at only 20 years old, completed her leg in 6th place, while Bendika impressively moved the team to 1st. Bendika highlighted the importance of enjoying these small victories, even amid the larger competition. However, she was also aware of the struggles Buliņa faced later in the race, which contributed significantly to the team's overall drop in standing.

The overall experience was a complex mix of highs and lows for the Latvian team. While the initial performances were commendable, Buliņa's experience reflects the significant mental and emotional challenges that come with competing at such high-level events. Her experience may serve as a learning moment, emphasizing the need for preparation not just in physical skills but also in managing pressure and stress during critical competitions.

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